India has lined up alternative LPG supplies from multiple countries to ensure steady fuel availability amid disruptions in traditional Middle East routes.
India has moved quickly to secure its cooking fuel needs as global supply chains face disruption, lining up fresh LPG imports from countries including the United States, Russia and Australia.
The development comes at a time when energy markets are under strain due to tensions in the Middle East, which have impacted key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. For a country like India, where a large share of LPG imports traditionally comes from Gulf nations, any disruption in that corridor can create immediate pressure on supplies.
To manage the situation, Indian companies have locked in around 800,000 tonnes of LPG from alternative sources. Officials say these shipments are expected to cover roughly a month of demand, offering a buffer while the global situation remains uncertain.
The shift also reflects a broader change in India’s energy strategy. Instead of depending heavily on one region, the country is increasingly spreading its sourcing across multiple geographies. Recent data shows that imports from the Middle East have dropped significantly in the short term, with countries like the US and Russia stepping in to bridge the gap.
At the same time, domestic refiners have been asked to step up production. LPG output within the country has already been increased by around 40% in recent weeks to ensure that household demand is met without disruption.
Officials have also been cautious in their messaging, urging consumers not to panic. Despite global uncertainties, petrol, diesel and cooking gas supplies remain stable, with enough stock available to handle immediate requirements.
However, the situation highlights how vulnerable global energy supply chains can be during geopolitical tensions. India still depends on imports for a significant portion of its LPG consumption, and any prolonged disruption could push the country to further diversify its sourcing strategy.
For now, the government appears confident that supplies are under control. But with the global situation still evolving, energy security is likely to remain a key focus in the weeks ahead.
